Inflow / Infiltration Program

The borough's Inflow / Infiltration Program (I/I) is designed to identify illegal discharges of clean water into the sanitary collection system.

Inflow

Inflow is a condition that exists when rainwater is allowed to connect directly into the sanitary system. Inflow sources may include: sump pumps, rain spouts, cellar drains, yard drains, foundation drains, and cooling water discharges to name a few.

The problem created by inflow is that as it rains, water enters into the collection system. The pipes are sized to handle normal operational demand, once the capacity in the system is full, the sewage has no where to go other than back up in to homes and/or overload the plant.

Infiltration

Infiltration is a condition whereby underground pipes that convey sewage, have cracks that allow ground water to filter into the sanitary pipe. Infiltration sources include: cracked pipes, bad pipe joints, and penetration of tree roots.

I/I programs include flow studies that are used to help identify the type of flow causing the problem. Smoke or dye testing is used to locate the source of flow. TV cameras are used to inspect the pipes for cracks and other defects that may allow inflow or infiltration. The I/I program is an ongoing program that will always be needed to help keep the sanitary system from overloading and control costs.

Overloading the Sanitary System

Overloads in the sanitary system are an environmental problem that affects all of us. As sanitary systems get older they are susceptible to I/I problems. If I/I is not kept under control, one remedy will be to install larger pipes and construct a larger plant to processes the increased flow. Building larger facilities is very expensive, costing everyone more money to process rainwater.

Help do your part by removing sump pumps and roof drains from the sanitary system. If you are not sure where your rain spouts or sump pump are connected, call Public Works at 610-970-6527 to get information or have a free home inspection.